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Strong’s Greek 1502 conveys the notion of “yielding” or “giving way.” In its single New Testament occurrence it is presented in the negative—Paul refuses to yield—emphasizing steadfast resistance rather than capitulation.

Scriptural Context:Galatians 2:5

“We did not yield to them in submission even for a moment, so that the truth of the gospel would remain with you.” (Galatians 2:5)

Paul, Barnabas, and Titus are in Jerusalem contending with men who sought to impose circumcision and Mosaic requirements upon Gentile believers. The apostle’s unwavering stance protects both gospel purity and Gentile liberty.

Theological Themes

1. Gospel Integrity. Yielding on essentials would corrupt “the truth of the gospel” (Galatians 2:5; compare1 Corinthians 15:1–2).
2. Spiritual Vigilance. Scripture repeatedly calls believers to stand firm (Ephesians 6:13–14;2 Thessalonians 2:15). The single use of Strong 1502 powerfully illustrates that firmness when orthodoxy is threatened.
3. Liberty in Christ. Paul refuses to compromise because Christian freedom rests on grace, not law (Galatians 5:1).
4. Apostolic Responsibility. Leaders must safeguard doctrine (1 Timothy 1:3–7;Titus 1:10–11).

Historical Background

Galatians 2 parallelsActs 15. Judaizers claimed that Gentiles must convert to Judaism to be true disciples. The Jerusalem Council affirms salvation by grace through faith. Paul’s refusal to “yield” becomes a turning point, ensuring a unified church composed of Jews and Gentiles on equal footing.

Practical and Ministry Implications

• Doctrinal Boundaries: Churches should distinguish between negotiable preferences and non-negotiable gospel truths.
• Courageous Leadership: Elders and teachers are charged to confront error lovingly yet firmly (2 Timothy 4:2).
• Unity Rooted in Truth: Authentic unity arises from shared allegiance to the apostolic gospel, not from mere compromise (John 17:17–21).
• Discipleship: Believers learn discernment—when to yield for the sake of love (Romans 14) and when not to yield for the sake of truth (Galatians 2:5).

Related Biblical Concepts

Standing firm:1 Corinthians 16:13;Philippians 1:27.

Resisting false teachers:2 Peter 2:1; 2John 10–11.

Maintaining liberty:Galatians 5:13;James 1:25.

Illustrative Examples from Church History

• Athanasius contra mundum (“Athanasius against the world”) in defense of the deity of Christ during the Arian controversy mirrors Paul’s refusal to yield.
• The Reformers’ insistence on sola fide echoes the stand inGalatians 2, protecting justification by faith from legalistic additions.

Reflection and Application for Today

Modern believers face cultural and theological pressures that can compromise biblical fidelity. Strong 1502 reminds the church that loving conviction, gracious dialogue, and unwavering adherence to the apostolic gospel are not mutually exclusive but jointly necessary for faithful witness.